Tell us about your individual journey into boating.
My introduction to boating came at a young age, thanks to my grandfather. He owned a home on Sanibel Island, with his boat moored right behind it. My cousins and I would eagerly bait fishing rods with hot dogs and catch catfish off the stern. Boating was a cherished family tradition for him, symbolized by each grandchild represented as a musical note on the boat's side. In his final days, though voiceless, he held up a photo of me proudly after I reeled in a sizable snook, offering a heartfelt thumbs-up.
How has the industry changed when it comes to women since you got started?
Reflecting on how the industry has evolved for women since I first embarked on this journey, I recall early instances of donning boys' boardshorts. At that time, there was limited apparel catering to women who enjoyed watersports. This scarcity mirrored the prevailing culture. Now, as an adult and a mother of five daughters, I'm delighted to witness more female captains and women anglers. I have female friends who confidently take their boats out with their children, a sight I rarely saw during my own childhood.
Why is it still a challenge to involve women in boating?
I believe it's because operating a substantial watercraft in open waters can appear intimidating. Fortunately, numerous organizations, marinas, and experienced captains are willing to offer guidance and instruction. While many of us grow up around cars, fewer have early exposure to boats, making it a novel experience for numerous women. Thankfully, there are user-friendly vessels like pontoon boats, ideal for novice boaters.
What, from your unique vantage point, is the single most important gesture that can be made to make women feel more welcome in boating?
From my unique perspective, the most significant gesture to make women feel more at home in boating is to include them actively. This means integrating them into advertising campaigns, educational programs, and conversations within marinas and boat shows. Frequently, even when standing alongside my husband, individuals address him directly on all matters related to boating, despite my greater knowledge and boating license.
Having grown up on Florida's waters while my husband hailed from Western Pennsylvania, I was the one familiar with boat brands, knowledgeable about the best fit for our family, and ultimately responsible for the purchase. To foster inclusivity for women in boating, the industry must assume our competence and capability.
